Australian Author Shankari Chandran Wins 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award with “Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens”
Intergenerational Epic Explores Multiculturalism and Postcolonial Trauma
Australian author Shankari Chandran has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Miles Franklin literary award for her novel “Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens.” Set in an aged care facility in contemporary western Sydney and against the backdrop of Sri Lanka’s brutal civil war, the novel delves into Australia’s complex relationship with multiculturalism and postcolonial trauma.
Chandran, a Sydney-based lawyer of Tamil heritage, was presented with the $60,000 prize at a ceremony in Sydney. The judging panel commended Chandran’s novel for its compelling characters, engaging dialogue, and dynamic action. In a joint statement, the judges highlighted the novel’s skillful navigation of contested historical claims and its powerful reminder about the importance of acknowledging and learning from past atrocities.
A Courageous Endeavor: Overcoming Doubt and Rejection
Chandran reveals that the journey to writing “Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens” was filled with doubt and rejection. Following the modest success of her second book, a futuristic thriller titled “The Barrier,” publishers initially rejected her follow-up manuscript. Despite the initial setbacks, Chandran persevered and went on to write her novel with complete honesty and freedom.
The author shares that she felt uncertain about whether the book would ever be published in Australia, which allowed her to explore the themes of race and identity in a fearless manner. This liberation not only enabled her to write from a place of authenticity but also provided the perfect opportunity to tackle the issue of multiculturalism in Australia head-on.
A Multifaceted Identity: Navigating Acceptance and Gratitude
Chandran’s personal experiences heavily influenced the themes explored in “Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens.” Her parents, both doctors, fled Sri Lanka during the onset of civil war, ultimately settling in Australia. Growing up in suburban Canberra, Chandran constantly grappled with her own identity and the conditions under which acceptance was granted.
The author expresses that her multifaceted identity, including her cultural and religious practices and the color of her skin, has not always been accepted in Australia. She explains the expectation of unwavering gratitude placed on new Australians, whether they are refugees or immigrants, and how this expectation has silenced her throughout her childhood and into adulthood.
Gratitude emerges as a recurring theme in “Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens.” The novel explores the sense of probation that non-Anglo Australians often experience, highlighting the demand from white Australia for unwavering gratitude. It uncovers the internal struggle faced by many individuals in expressing their concerns and experiences openly, fearing an ungrateful response.
Rage, Love, and the Complexities of Race
Chandran’s novel takes readers on a journey from seemingly gentle surroundings to an exploration of violence, intergenerational trauma, grief, and rage. Utilizing an act of postcolonial activism as a catalyst, the book unravels a community, sparking social media frenzy and inciting racial violence. While rage is initially present throughout the narrative, Chandran aims to guide readers towards a place of love through her writing.
The author acknowledges that much of her work stems from a place of rage but hopes that through reflection and contemplation, it transforms into a message of love. By asking why discussions about race are so difficult rather than providing explicit reasons, Chandran encourages readers to examine the ways in which society talks about and, more importantly, fails to talk about race and its complexities.
Editorial: The Power of Literature in Addressing Immigration and Identity
The recognition of Shankari Chandran’s “Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens” with the 2023 Miles Franklin literary award highlights the significance of literature in addressing pressing societal issues. With immigration and identity being central themes in the novel, Chandran fearlessly dives into the complexities of Australia’s multicultural landscape, encouraging readers to confront uncomfortable truths.
This novel serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of listening to the voices of marginalised communities and allowing them to reclaim and retell their stories. Through literature, we have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals navigating a new country while preserving their cultural heritage.
Advice: Embracing Uncomfortable Conversations for Progress
In light of Shankari Chandran’s powerful exploration of immigration, multiculturalism, and postcolonial trauma, it is vital for society to embrace uncomfortable conversations about race and identity. By engaging in open dialogue and actively listening to those whose experiences differ from our own, we can foster a more inclusive and understanding society.
It is essential to recognize that discussions about race, immigration, and identity should not be approached with a demand for gratitude but rather with empathy and a genuine desire to learn. By dismantling the barriers that hinder these conversations, we can work towards a future where all individuals feel seen, heard, and accepted.
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